UI VC Charges Graduates to “Lead the Change and Claim Your Rightful Place at the Top”

The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan, Professor Kayode O. Adebowale, mni, FAS, fspsp, has charged the fresh graduates of the 2025 convocation to embrace confidence, seize opportunities, and lead the change Nigeria needs while claiming their rightful place at the top.

Delivering his charge during the second day of the convocation ceremonies, where graduands received First Degrees across the Faculties of Agriculture, Social Sciences, Veterinary Medicine, Technology, Law, Economics & Management Sciences, and Renewable Natural Resources, Professor Adebowale urged them to leverage the skills and knowledge acquired at UI to navigate even uncertain times successfully.

He emphasized belief in Nigeria’s potential, encouraging graduates to contribute positively to national development and become integral to the country’s history. Highlighting the university’s legacy, the Vice-Chancellor noted UI’s impact on human capital development, research, and community service, and underscored the role of its alumni in shaping society.

The commencement speaker, Mrs. Bola Olajomi-Otubu, MD/CEO Beige Spaces Limited and UI alumna, reminded graduands that post-university life will test their determination. She cautioned them about inevitable setbacks and seasons of delay or doubt but encouraged them to rely on the foundation and lessons learned at UI to persevere and succeed.

Drawing from her own journey, Mrs. Olajomi-Otubu shared how she built a career that now employs nearly 60 professionals, stressing the importance of practical wisdom, resilience, and deliberate decision-making. She urged graduates to choose the hard and right path over the easy and quick, build amidst chaos, foster community, challenge stereotypes, find purpose, and stand on the shoulders of giants.

She reminded them that true success is gradual, built brick by brick, choice by choice, and faith by faith. According to her, the future belongs to the bold—those who believe in themselves, pursue their purpose, and shape dreams into realities.

The convocation also featured the presentation of prizes and awards to the best graduating students at both faculty and departmental levels, celebrating academic excellence and exceptional achievement.